Coronary Artery Disease: Mapping Your Heart's Blockage Signals

Did you know that Indians face a 3-4 times higher risk of coronary artery disease (CAD)? This silent threat can build up over time, turning the heart’s vital network of arteries into dangerous blockages overnight. Understanding coronary artery disease is about taking charge of your life. With lifestyle changes and early detection, you can transform your heart health story from a potential crisis to one of strength and longevity.

So, what is coronary artery disease? 

CAD occurs when the major blood vessels supplying the heart become damaged or narrowed due to the buildup of cholesterol, calcium, and fatty deposits — a process known as atherosclerosis. Imagine it like pipes slowly clogging over time. As blood flow decreases, the heart muscle receives less oxygen, leading to symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue. In severe cases, a complete blockage can trigger a heart attack. While CAD develops gradually, it can be managed with medical care and lifestyle changes. In India, CAD affects 21.4% of diabetics and 11% of non-diabetics, with urban populations facing nearly double the prevalence compared to rural.

What causes coronary artery disease? 

CAD develops due to a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and metabolic factors that gradually damage the arteries. 

• High LDL cholesterol – Leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, narrowing blood flow

• Tobacco use – Damages artery linings and accelerates plaque formation

• Diabetes – Increases the risk of blood vessel damage and inflammation

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) – Thickens and narrows artery walls, straining the heart

• Obesity – Triggers metabolic imbalances, increasing the risk of CAD

• Chronic stress – Contributes to inflammation and hormonal disruptions

• Genetics – Family history can predispose individuals to coronary artery disease

• Sedentary lifestyle – Lack of physical activity weakens heart health

• Poor diet – High intake of processed foods, unhealthy fats, and sugars worsens arterial health.

• Age – Risk rises after 55 in men and 65 in women.

These factors work together, creating a complex web of risks that make coronary artery disease a serious health concern.

What are the types of coronary artery disease?  

Coronary artery disease isn’t a single condition but a spectrum of cardiovascular issues. Here are its key types:

• Obstructive CAD – The classic form where major arteries experience significant narrowing, reducing blood flow

• Non-obstructive CAD – An early-stage condition without complete blockages but still affecting blood circulation

• Microvascular CAD – Affects the smaller heart arteries, making it harder to diagnose and treat

• Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) – A rare condition involving sudden tears in the arterial wall, often seen in younger individuals

Each type requires a tailored diagnosis and treatment plan, highlighting the need for a personalised medical approach.

Coronary artery disease symptoms 

Recognising coronary artery disease symptoms early on can be lifesaving. Here are key warning signs:

• Chest pain (angina) – A squeezing or pressure-like sensation that may radiate to the arms, neck, or jaw.

• Shortness of breath – Especially during physical activity or emotional stress, indicating poor cardiac function.

• Unexplained fatigue – Can be an early sign, particularly in women.

• Irregular heartbeats – May feel like palpitations or skipped beats

• Mild discomfort – Often mistaken for indigestion

• Severe episodes – Can include sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness

Symptoms may differ between men and women. Women may experience back pain, extreme fatigue, or nausea, rather than classic chest pain.

These warning signs aren’t minor discomforts — they’re signals from your heart that need urgent medical attention.

Complications associated with coronary artery disease

If left untreated, CAD can lead to severe, life-altering complications:

• Heart attack – A sudden blockage in the arteries cuts off blood supply, causing heart muscle damage.

• Heart failure – The heart struggles to pump enough oxygenated blood, making even simple tasks exhausting.

• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) – Damaged heart tissue can disrupt normal rhythms, leading to unpredictable heartbeats.

Managing CAD early can prevent these serious consequences and protect long-term heart health.

Protect your heart: Prevention and home remedies 

A heart-healthy lifestyle is key to preventing coronary artery disease. Here’s what you can do:

• Adopt a heart-friendly diet – Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods.

• Exercise regularly – Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to improve cardiovascular health.

• Manage stress – Practise meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce inflammation and heart strain.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol – Both significantly lower heart disease risk.

• Maintain a healthy weight – Balanced nutrition and regular exercise help keep one’s weight in check.

• Monitor health metrics – Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar under control through regular check-ups.

• Practise portion control – Avoid overeating and use steaming or grilling instead of frying.

Taking these steps can significantly reduce the risk of CAD and improve long-term heart health.

When should I call a healthcare provider? 

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following: 

• Notice symptoms – Such as persistent chest pain or pressure, sudden shortness of breath, unexplained sweating or dizziness, or irregular or rapid heartbeats

• New or worsening symptoms – If you have a history of heart disease, any change should be taken seriously.

• Family history of heart problems – If heart disease runs in your family, be extra cautious with any warning signs, and if you notice any symptoms or experience discomfort, call your doctor immediately.

The heart's journey  

Coronary artery disease isn’t fate — it’s a condition you can manage with informed choices. Understanding warning signs, embracing prevention, and making heart-healthy decisions turn risks into opportunities for better health. Your heart is resilient and responds to how you care for it. With medical guidance, lifestyle changes, and steady, mindful habits, you can navigate this journey. Prevention isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistent, conscious efforts that protect your heart in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between coronary artery disease and heart attack?

A heart attack occurs due to sudden occlusion, whereas coronary artery disease is the gradual narrowing of arteries, eventually leading to a heart attack. 

2. How common is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease is highly prevalent, affecting 10%-15% of adults in India. Its risk increases with age, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits.

3. How to check for heart blockage at home? 

Self-tests are limited. Monitoring one’s blood pressure, pulse, or noticing symptoms like chest pain may offer clues, but only professional tests can confirm blockages.

4. What is the link between coronary artery disease and mental health? 

Chronic heart conditions can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress. Mental health plays a crucial role in treatment adherence and overall cardiovascular well-being.